B&B Bishop Auckland, Newlands Hall Frosterley

The beauty of Weardale is that everything is in easy reach either by car, bike or foot and there are numerous places to explore ranging from the high wild fells of Weardale and Teesdale, to pretty villages, market towns and the beautiful University City of Durham, with its cathederal, castle and medieval streets. Below are just a few idea of places to visit. Alternatively visit the local Tourist Information Centre and be amazed by the range of days out in Weardale. http://www.durhamdalescentre.co.uk

Leading Durham visitor attractions, from museums to farms, and railways to castles, are offering great value deals online just visit http://www.visitcountydurham.com/site/durham-deals

Auckland Castle - historically the principle country residence of the Prince Bishops and now the official home of the Bishop of Durham.

http://www.auckland-castle.co.uk

The Bowes Museum - offers a fascinating museum experience for all the family. Enjoy the greatest collection of European fine and decorative arts in the North of England and an acclaimed exhibition programme, alongside special events and children’s activities.

http://www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Diggerland - is the ultimate adventure park for all ages, where you can ride, drive and operate full size construction machinery.

http://www.diggerland.com

Durham Cathedral - the presant Cathedral has stood on this spot as a place of prayer and pilgrimage for over 900 years. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in England, and part of a World Heritage Site.

http://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Escomb Church - dates from the 7th century. Much of stonework is Roman. Now restored, it is one of the finest examples of early Christian architecture in Northern Europe.

http://www.qlhs.org.uk/oracle/escomb/escomb.htm

Frosterley - a village of Saxon origin and famous for it's Frosterley marble which was used in the Chapel of Nine Altars in Durham Cathedral.

Hamsterlet Forest - Covering some 2000 hectares on the edge of Teesdale and Weardale, Hamsterley Forest provides many opportunities for outdoor activities with forest walks, nature trails, orienteering courses and mountain bike routes.

http://www.hamsterley-trailblazers.co.uk/mtb.htm

Killhope Wheel - a visit to the Dale would not be complete without a visit to Killhope Wheel and Lead Mining Centre, to sample the harsh reality of life in a 19-century mine, and follow the nature trail and see the Red Squirrels.

http://www.killhope.org.uk

Stanhope - a stone built town standing on the northern bank of the River Wear. The parish church of St.Thomas is well worthy of a visit especially to see the 250 million year old fossilised tree which you can find in the church grounds. The Durham Dales Centre is based here with its Information Centre, Craft Shops and Tea Rooms.

http://www.durhamdalescentre.co.uk

Weardale Museum and High House Chapel - a small museum depicting Weardale life in the 19th century. The adjoining High House chapel is the oldest purpose built Methodist Chapel still holding weekly services.

http://www.weardalemuseum.co.uk

Wolsingham - is a little town in Lower Weardale where the river leaves the hills of West Durham. Here you can find a range of small shops, pubs and recreational facilities including an indoor swimming pool. Wolsingham Show, reputed to be the oldest agricultural show in England, is held the first weekend in September.